Good morning, Ventura.

Ventura's pier and promenade are popular walking spots today, offering ocean views that residents and visitors enjoy — a cherished local landmark — and a go-to destination for a refreshing stroll.

Christopher Hurtado of Santa Paula pleaded guilty on June 16 to animal cruelty and meth possession after he attacked a sick sea lion on the Ventura Promenade beach in March — he was arrested following a 911 call on March 4 and remains in custody with bail set at $25,000 pending sentencing on July 14.

Timothy Padilla was charged with 17 counts after police served a search warrant at his Fillmore home on June 13 and recovered 137 firearms, hundreds of magazines, and around 100,000 rounds of ammunition in connection with illegal transfers of assault weapons—authorities say the investigation is ongoing.

CSU Channel Islands faculty and students returned 700 rescued tidewater gobies to Topanga Lagoon today after caring for them in aquariums for five months following the Palisades Fire — they will continue to monitor the fish's progress in the wild.

High fire season is underway in Ventura as La Niña brings drier, warmer weather that will first raise fire risk in interior areas and then move to the coast in July and August.

Local officials say small fires have begun amid recent dry conditions & crews are on standby to handle emergencies.